The Effect of Employed Mothers’ Proactive Personality on Parenting Behaviors: The Serial Mediating Effect of Work-Family Conflict and Marital Satisfaction

Abstract

Objectives: This study investigated the individual and family characteristics that influence parenting behaviors. The concept of mothers’ proactive personality and its impact on parenting behaviors have been largely unexplored. Therefore, this study examined the direct effect of employed mothers’ proactive personality on parenting behaviors, as well as its indirect effect mediated by work-family conflict and marital satisfaction.Methods: Data from 202 full-time employed mothers with children in early childhood(aged 3-5 years) were analyzed using frequency analysis, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and path analysis.Results: First, employed mothers’ proactive personality had a positively significant direct effect on positive parenting behaviors; however, it did not affect on negative parenting behaviors. Second, the indirect effect of employed mothers’ proactive personality on both positive and negative parenting behaviors mediated by work-family conflict was insignificant. Third, the indirect effect of employed mothers’ proactive personality on positive parenting behaviors mediated by marital satisfaction was positively significant. Finally, the serial mediating effect of employed mothers’ proactive personality on both positive and negative parenting behaviors mediated by work-family conflict and marital satisfaction was insignificant.Conclusion: Employed mothers’ proactive personality can serve as a significant factor influencing marital relationships and positive parenting behaviors. It is crucial to prioritize the creation of a supportive environment that helps employed mothers navigate various challenges arising from family and work responsibilities. Additionally, the pivotal role of marital satisfaction in fostering positive parenting behaviors among employed mothers should be underscored.